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CATOOSA & WALKER
John Favors Michael (Shooter) Espy
Rene Grever General Manager
About Us
WRITERS
Abdiel Medina
Bill Silvers
Charles Finney
Chris Mullis
Courtney Fox
Dorothy Teague
Douglas Baynes
Dr. Bobbye Jo Davidson
Dr. Jeff Dabbs
Filip Brunner
Garrett Nudd
Hayden Lanier
Karen Jeffery
Zach Gray
SALES
Matthew Ruckman goodnewstn@gmail.com 423-503-1410
DESIGNER
Riley Evans art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Paula Knipp 423-310-4207
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR
Sandra Gilmore articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman goodnewstn@gmail.com 423-503-1410
OFFICE
423-790-5378
WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/catoosaga
SOCIAL MEDIA
f GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa
Hello Friends,
We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Disclaimer
All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/ consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
Faith and Finances
by Dr. Jeff Dabbs
One of the most uncomfortable topics to discuss in modern society is no doubt — money; and yet it is one of the most talked about. The topic of money is the catalyst for many family arguments and couples stress over it perhaps more than anything else. The one thing most people agree on is that most people feel they never have enough of it. Interestingly, Jesus spoke more about money than almost any other topic, not because He personally needed it, but because He acutely understood how deeply it grips our hearts.
Matthew 6:21 NASB reminds us, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” How we handle money says a lot about where our hearts are at with priorities.
The first step in approaching finances with faith is to remember who really owns everything. Psalm 24:1 NASB declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.”
That means our bank accounts, paychecks, and possessions are not ultimately ours — they are God’s. We are simply managers, or stewards, of what He has entrusted to us. This perspective changes the way we view money: from “What can I do with what I earned?” to “How can I honor God with what He has given me?”
We live in a culture that constantly tells us we need more: a bigger house, a nicer car, a better vacation. But Scripture teaches us to pursue contentment instead. Paul wrote, “If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content” (1 Timothy 6:8 NASB).
Contentment doesn’t mean we stop working hard or planning wisely, It means we stop chasing satisfaction in material things. True contentment comes from Christ, not from credit cards.
One of the clearest ways we demonstrate faith with our money is through generosity. Proverbs 3:9 NASB says, “Honor the Lord from your wealth and from the first of all your produce.”
Giving is not about God needing our money; it’s about us needing to let go of greed. When we give –whether through tithing to our local church, supporting missionaries, or helping a neighbor in need – we remind
ourselves that money is a tool for God’s kingdom, not a treasure to hoard.
And here’s the surprising part: generous people often experience more joy and freedom than those who cling tightly to every dollar. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35 NASB).
So, how can we apply this practically? Faith in finances doesn’t mean ignoring practical wisdom. The Bible gives clear guidance:
1. Avoid unnecessary debt. Proverbs 22:7 NASB warns, “The borrower becomes the lender’s slave.”
2. Plan ahead. Proverbs 21:5 NASB says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage.”
3. Save wisely. Joseph stored grain in Egypt during years of abundance to prepare for famine (Genesis 41). Savings can protect our families in hard times.
4. Live within your means. Don’t try to keep up with others. God calls us to faithfulness, not comparison.
Finances can cause stress, but they don’t have to. When we put God first, practice contentment, give generously and live with wisdom, money becomes a tool for blessing rather than a source of bondage.
Jesus summed it up best in Matthew 6:33 NASB: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Faith and finances aren’t separate subjects. They are deeply connected. And when handled God’s way, our money becomes a powerful means of glorifying Him.
Dr. Jeff Dabbs is the senior pastor at Spring Creek Baptist Church, Rome, Georgia. He has authored Sunday School material and several books.
Photo by Philippe Gauthier on Unsplash
Knowledge Love
by Hayden Lanier
The year-long Bible-reading plan, “The Bible Recap,” encourages believers to engage with Scripture daily, reading several chapters and working through the Bible in chronological order. Each day’s Scripture reading is accompanied by short audio/video explanations from the plan’s host, Tara-Leigh Cobble.
One of my favorite parts of this plan is the five short prayers it encourages you to pray before you do your reading each day. The second prayer especially stands out to me: “Let any knowledge I gain help me love You and others more, and not puff me up.” The final verse of 2 Peter is an important reminder about this subject. It says this: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen” (3:18 ESV).
This verse in 2 Peter has two parts: we are to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus, but He receives the glory now and always. We grow in knowledge. He gets the glory.
Some people have no shortage of knowledge about Jesus, but they are lacking in the humility department. They can tell you what the Bible says about different subjects and their opinions on every matter, but they do it in an arrogant manner. They gain knowledge, but they allow it to “puff them up,” and don’t use it to love the Lord and others more.
Let us think about Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13. He said that if he understands all mysteries, has all knowledge and faith, but doesn’t have love, he is nothing (v. 2). Our knowledge must lead us on to action. Our growth in the knowledge of Christ should lead to a growth in action for Christ. It does not matter how many seminary degrees you earn, how many Bible verses you memorize, or how many sermons you preach; we must do these things for the Lord, not for ourselves.
Now, please don’t misinterpret this. We absolutely need to stand firm on the truth. In a world of lies and false religion, the Word of God is our steady, unchanging anchor. We should take a bold stand on what the Bible says and share it with the world. However, we must do this not for our sake, but for the Lord’s. We should not share our knowledge about Him so that others will think we are intelligent or great, but so that they will know who our amazing God is and what He has done.
Any knowledge we gain about God is from Him. He graciously allows us to learn about His character, His ways, and how He loves His people. We must humbly recognize that everything—yes, everything!—is a gift from God, and that we cannot take any of the recognition or prestige from His good gifts. There is no room for pride when we kneel in humility at the foot of the cross.
So, as Christians, we should increase our knowledge of God! We need to be reading the Bible, studying it, and seeking to know the God we serve better. It is a blessed privilege that we have such rich access to the Bible and Biblical resources as 21st-century Christians. But we should be on guard against letting this knowledge puff us up. Instead, let us pray that the Lord will use what we read, learn, and grow in to love others with the truth.
See www.setyourmindabove.com for more from Hayden Lanier.
Photo by Mariia Zakatiura on Unsplash
Hayden Lanier is a follower of Jesus, a graduate of Shorter University, and he works as an elementary school teacher.
Growing up, did you ever hear someone tell you, “Enjoy this while you can, because it won’t be like this forever,” or maybe, “Childhood is a short season; don’t rush it,” or the very popular one, “Be thankful for what you have because you’ll never know when you may lose it”? All of these sayings are becoming more and more real to me as each day passes.
My name is Zach Gray. I am a student-athlete at Lee University and have recently been given the privilege of interning at Hughes Retirement Group. I have played for three years on the Lee University Men’s Basketball Team. Playing college basketball has taught me that success isn't determined by one great play, but rather is built through consistent preparation, discipline, and the ability to stay focused on long-term goals. Those same principles are just as relevant in becoming a retirement advisor.
At Lee, Coach Smith creates each practice plan based on the specific needs of our team that day. Therefore, every practice has a purpose. Both individually and as a team, you spend countless hours developing skills, studying opponents, and preparing for situations that may or may not happen in the future. I’ve learned that retirement planning works in a very similar way. The decisions people make today—such as saving consistently, managing risk, and creating a financial strategy—can determine their opportunities years down the road.
Basketball also reinforces the importance of teamwork. No championship team is built around one player. Success comes from trust, communication, and everyone working toward a common objective. Becoming an advisor works in a very similar way. I’ve learned that being honest and trustworthy with your clients can go a long way.
More than a Game Money Matters Zach Gray with
Basketball also teaches resilience. Every season includes setbacks—a tough loss, an injury, or a game where the outcome wasn’t in your favor. The best teams don't let one bad game or practice define their season. They learn, adapt, and keep moving forward. Financial markets can be similar. There will always be periods of uncertainty and ups and downs. However, reassuring your clients on a personal level, explaining that they are in good hands and that one down market day isn’t the defining factor in their investments, is very important.
Perhaps the greatest lessons I have carried from athletics are consistency and accountability. Coaches expect players to be prepared, dependable, and committed to continuous improvement. As a senior this year, I am maturing into my final and most important role as a leader for my team. I want to bring those same expectations to my profession by striving to provide thoughtful guidance, ongoing education, and personalized service to every client I work with.
Working with Hughes Retirement Group has been an amazing experience for me. I have learned and grown so much both in the office, outside the office, and spiritually. Rick and Wendy have poured so much into me in such a short amount of time, and I couldn’t feel better about working for them. Rick brings many of his coaching principles into his business, and in doing so, I’ve realized that my basketball career prepared me for much more than competition. It shaped the way I approach challenges, build relationships, and help others pursue their goals. My time on the court may be coming to a bittersweet end, but the lessons I learned will help me become the best employee I can be.
Adventures from Camp Rockmont: Leading My First Hike
by Abdiel Medina
I spent my summer as a counselor and outdoor survival skills instructor at Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Each day was a blessing and an adventure, pushing me out of my comfort zone and closer to God. On Day 18, I led my first hiking trip with a group of 12 campers. The boys ranged from elementary to middle schoolers. I was assisted by one of the staff members, “Zamp,” as we took the group to the John Rock Trail Loop, in the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.
I was nervous; it was my responsibility to keep everyone safe and make the hike a fun experience, but I refused to allow fear to control me (2 Timothy 1:7). Instead, I focused on the excitement of getting to adventure in nature while growing as a leader. I was also encouraged to have Zamp assist me. He has experience with leading kids on hikes.
The hike to John’s Rock was no easy feat for the campers. The route I planned was over five miles and 1,000+ feet of elevation gain. I completed the route alongside some of the staff a few days prior to leading my group of boys. Although we were young men of vigor, even we were worn out!
As anticipated, the first couple miles were tough for the campers. There were occasional breaks for water and rest, but the guys were fighting an uphill battle… literally! They had to hike two miles uphill before we reached our lunch destination. With every step we took, they grew in frustration, hunger, and a desire to quit.
Reflections from Day 18: June 12th, 2025
Like a football coach rallying his team’s spirits to victory, I gave a speech to hype up my campers’ spirits. I told my guys about the time I ran the Cleveland Half Marathon (13.1 miles) and how my endurance was tested. When I hit mile 10, I felt completely exhausted, but I stayed focused and kept pushing forward, one step at a time. I refused to quit, and completed the race much quicker than I expected.
I looked at my group and shouted, “Are we going to quit?!”
“NO!” The boys screamed.
After their shout of grit (and water and a snack to refuel) we kept pushing forward. They were rewarded with a beautiful mountain overlook. My campers learned a valuable lesson from the hike: how to stay positive and persevere amidst hardship.
The campers learned in one hike what God had been teaching me all summer as a camp counselor: It’s these moments of discomfort that allow for dependence on God, discovery of one’s potential, and deeper enjoyment and appreciation of the gift of life. (Thessalonians 5:16-18).
The Christian Journey is filled with countless moments of discomfort and incredible mountaintop experiences. The question is, like the campers, will you choose to keep pushing forward when challenges come your way?
Philippians 3:13-14 ESV: “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Abdiel Medina is a servant of God. He enjoys reading, writing, and running. He is in the Chattanooga Fellows Program.
The Power and Blessing of Prayer
by Karen D. Jeffery
Prayer is one of the greatest gifts God has given His people. Through prayer we speak with our Heavenly Father, seek His guidance, give thanks, and ask for His help. The Bible teaches that God hears the prayers of those who sincerely call upon Him.
The Lord invites us to come to Him in prayer. In the Bible, we read:
Matthew 7:7 KJV: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
This verse reminds us that God wants His children to come to Him with their needs. Prayer is not complicated—it is simply talking to God with faith and trust.
Pray About Everything
God tells us that we should pray about every situation in our lives. Whether we are worried, thankful, or in need, we can bring it all to Him.
Philippians 4:6 KJV: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
When we pray with thanksgiving, we acknowledge that God is in control and that He cares deeply for us.
The Example Jesus Gave
Jesus Himself showed us how to pray. His disciples asked Him to teach them, and He gave them a beautiful pattern for prayer.
Matthew 6:9–13 KJV:
“After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”
This prayer teaches us to honor God, ask for His will, seek daily provision, ask forgiveness, and ask for His protection
God Hears the Prayers of the Righteous
The Bible assures us that God listens to those who seek Him sincerely.
James 5:16 KJV: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
This verse reminds us that heartfelt prayer is powerful and meaningful in the eyes of God.
Pray Without Ceasing
Prayer should not be something we do only occasionally. God desires that we live in continual fellowship with Him.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV: “Pray without ceasing.”
This means we should keep our hearts open to God throughout the day, speaking to Him, thanking Him, and trusting Him in every moment.
Prayer strengthens our relationship with God and brings peace to our hearts. When we pray, we place our trust in the Lord who loves us and cares for every detail of our lives. No matter what we face, we can always turn to Him in prayer.
Jeremiah 33:3 KJV: “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.”
May we always remember that prayer is a blessing, a privilege, and a powerful connection with our Heavenly Father.
Karen Jeffery attends Gospel Light Tabernacle on Sheridan Ave, Dalton, Georgia. She declares, “I’m glad I can say I am a child of the Most High King!”
Catoosa County Church Directory
Baptist
Anchor of Hope Baptist Church
2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-8318
Battlefield Baptist Church
178 South Cedar Lane
Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-1316
Boynton Baptist Church
4093 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
706-952-1551
Briarwood Baptist Church
26 Ellis Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-9177
Burning Bush Baptist Church
2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-1989
Calvary Memorial Baptist Church
2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-6183
Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 518 Highway #41 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-9340
Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle 4994 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-4323
Cherokee Valley Baptist Church 1495 Cherokee Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-6220
Christ First Church
5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, Ga 30728
706-764-2212
Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-0164
Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-0164
Ebenezer Baptist Church
77 Hackett Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-7970
Faith Baptist Church
308 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
423-509-5334
First Baptist Church Ft. Oglethorpe
2645 LaFayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-0232
First Baptist Church of Ringgold 7611 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-2358
Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-2382
Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-9866
Grace Baptist Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-7969
Harvest Baptist Church of the Deaf 1314 Old Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-375-7107
Video Call: 706-956-0445
Heritage Pointe Baptist Church
60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736
706-858-0976
Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-673-6999
Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-450-0963
Lakeview First Baptist Church 10 Hudson Street Rossville, GA 30741
706-861-4262
Living Faith Baptist Church
Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-1817
Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-2317
Moriah Baptist Church 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-8843
Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-4887
Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 66 Westbrook Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3031
Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3872
Nellie Head Memorial Baptist 2379 Catoosa Parkway Tunnell Hill, GA 30755
706-935-5236
New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-3500
New Friendship Baptist Church
3833 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
New Heights Baptist Church
158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-9838
New Liberty Baptist Church
923 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-4754
Old Fort Baptist Church
18 Van Cleve Street
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-861-2807
Parkway Baptist Temple
65 Stuart Road
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-0325
Peavine Baptist Church
1089 Peavine Road
Rock Spring, GA 30739
706-375-4721
Philadelphia Baptist Church
1065 Pine Grove Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-5683
Pine Grove Baptist Church
46 Pine Grove Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-2427
Pleasant Grove Baptist Church
7769 Alabama Highway
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3348
Pleasant Valley Baptist Church
1995 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-537-3633
Poplar Springs Baptist Church
422 Poplar Springs Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-4461
Salem Baptist Church
1947 Keith Salem Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-3907
Shiloh Baptist Church
24 Kay Rossville,Street GA 30741
706-861-4359
Victory Baptist Church 1013 Layfayette Road
Rossville, GA 30741
706-866-0371
Welcome Hill Baptist Church
223 Inman Street
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-4814
Catholic
Saint Gerard Catholic Church
3049 Lafayette Road
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-861-9410
Church of Christ
Cohutta Road Church of Christ
2233 Mount Vernon Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3884
Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ
6 Harker Road
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-4124
Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-2820
Church of God
Boynton Church of God
1956 Three Notch Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-6300
Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-3599
Noble Church of God 75 Glass Rd Lafayette, GA 30728
Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-2056
Wallaceville Church of God
236 Harp Switch Road
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-375-2736
Community
Battlefield Ministries Church
64 3rd Street
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-9090
Green Pasture Community Church
1008 North Beaumont Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-375-7333
Lee’s Chapel Community Church
3253 Catoosa Parkway Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-9928
Rock Bridge Community Church 265 Poplar Springs Rd, Ringgold, GA 30736
706-279-3175
Episcopal
Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-9773
Full Gospel
Yates Spring Full Gospel Church 1300 Yates Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-638-2305
Methodist
Boynton UMC 4246 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-2626
Fairview UMC 2112 McFarland Avenue Rossville, GA 30741
423-653-1043
Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-820-6314
Graysville UMC
2331 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-9253
Newnan Springs UMC 78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741
706-866-6724
Ringgold UMC 7484 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-4777
Nazarene
Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-9838
Non-Denominational
Battlefield Assembly In Messiah 195 Ashley Lane, Rossville, GA 30741
304-890-0949
Battlefield Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-7729
Battlefield Praise & Worship 1337 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-913-0531
Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-779-6777
Church of Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673
Crossroads Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
crossroadsringgold.com
Faith Builders International 8309 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 256-338-5031
Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969
The Gathering 2290 Cloud Springs Road, Rossville, GA 30741 706-841 0161
Light House Church 1201 Lafayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-2715
Living Waters Ministries 1337 Battlefield Pkwy Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-255-8655
New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-7799
Ridgeland Point Church 1417 Happy Valley Rd. Rossville, GA 30741
RockPointe Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6523
Untethered Church 2473 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-991-6067
Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100
Woodstation Church 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360
Presbyterian
Chickamauga Presbyterian 700 7th Street
Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-3432
Christ Fellowship 1176 North Three Notch Rd. Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-4115
First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-2521
Hope Fellowship
2000 Twin Cedars Rd
Chickamauga, GA 30707
hopefellowshipepc.org
Morton Memorial 560 Red Belt Rd.
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-338-7176
Walker County Church Directory
Assembly of God
Cross Connection
703 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-639-3303
Gospel Tabernacle Assembly of God 1661 Highway 27
Chickamauga, GA
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 236 Crow Gap Road Chickamauga, GA
706-539-1117
Bethel Baptist Church 4068 S Highway 341 Chickamauga, GA
706-375-3756
Bethlehem Baptist Church 278 Oak Grove Road Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2797
Bethel Memorial Baptist Church 198 Pledger St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-2995
Bethesda Baptist Church 13432 Highway 151 LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-9450
Calvary Baptist Church 908 Bronco Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-8710
Cassandra Baptist Church 1371 W Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA
706-539-1046
Center Grove Baptist Church
68 Center Grove Church Rd Rock Springs, GA
706-764-2060
Center Point Baptist Church
118 Center Point Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-1753
Chattanooga Baptist Church
7300 Highway 337
LaFayette, GA 30728
Christ First Church 5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, GA 30728 (706) 764-2212
Christian Home 2518 Garretts Chapel Rd Chickamauga, GA 423-313-5230
Community Baptist Church 14 Kemp Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1774
Corinth Baptist Church
2524 Corinth Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3963
East Armuchee Baptist Church 3196 E. Armuchee Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706 375-4512
Emanuel Baptist Church
639 S Main St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1751
Faith Baptist Church of Chickamauga 14251 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA
423-760-8895
Fairview Baptist Church
108 Jenkins Rd. Rossville, GA 30741
706-866-5744
First Baptist Church
603 7th St Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2733
Friendship Baptist Church
1200 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3560
Garrett’s Chapel Baptist Church
3235 Garretts Chapel Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-6708
Grace Baptist Tabernacle 27 Jones Rd
Rock Springs, GA
423-362-3158
Grand Center Baptist Church of Chickamauga 1753 Grand Center Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-8505
Happy Home Baptist Church
704 N Chattanooga St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
Harbor Light Baptist Church
600 Crane St. LaFayette, GA 30728
423-605-0917
LaFayette 2nd Baptist Church
500 W Main Street
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-2779
Lafayette First Baptist Church 201 N Main St, LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3727
Lake Howard Baptist Church 1528 Lake Howard Rd.
LaFayette, GA 30728
423-304-4990
Linwood Baptist Church 18 Steele St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6527
Liberty Baptist Church 1334 Johnson Rd.
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-375-3859
Lookout Baptist Church 8645 Highway 193
Chickamauga, GA
706-931-2356
Macedonia Baptist Church 12461 E Highway 136
LaFayette, GA 30728
Marble Top Baptist Church
7131 N Marble Top Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-3536
Mt Hermon Baptist Church 2373 Hog Jowl Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-858-5650
Naomi Baptist Church 4171 E Highway 136
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-4601
New Harvest Missionary Baptist Church 2034 Highway 337
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-6257
New Home Baptist Church
256 New Home Rd.
LaFayette, GA 30728
North LaFayette Baptist Church 1649 N Main St
LaFayette, GA 30728
Oakwood Baptist Church 115 Oakwood St
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-5760
Peavine Baptist Church 1089 Peavine Rd
Rock Springs, GA
706-375-4721
Prospect Baptist Church
194 Prospect Church Rd
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-397-2908
Ridgeview Baptist Church
1001 Magnolis St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
334-300-4733
Ridgeway Baptist Church 1594 Ridgeway Rd.
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6832
Rock Springs Baptist Church
194 E Turnipseed Rd
Rock Springs, GA
706-810-8199
Shield Baptist Church 12684 N Highway 27
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2554
Shiloh Baptist Church
46 Manning Mill Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-397-8427
Sunnyside Baptist Church 3573 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
423-364-9701
True Life Baptist Church 1115 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-996-8571
Walnut Grove Baptist Church 55 Walnut Grove Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1377
Woodstation Baptist Church 42 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-764-1794
Catholic
Our Lady of the Mount Catholic Church 1227 Scenic Hwy, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 706-820-0680
Church of Christ
Church Of Christ
105 Crittenden Ave
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2222
Highway 27 Church of Christ 1684 S Highway 27 LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-4644
Lafayette Church of Christ 104 W Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1890
Steele Street Church of Christ 4 Steele St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-505-9583
Church of God
Catlett Community Church 122 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-309-4649
Cooper Heights Church of God 12598 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA 423-903-3759
Cove Road Church of God 620 N Chattanooga St LaFayette, GA 30728 678-467-6982
Covenant Life Worship Center 7001 Lafayette Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-5286
LaFayette First Church of God 301 Daugherty St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-639-7329
LaFayette Church of God 1002 S Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-450-0872
Noble Church of God 75 Glass Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-1093
Jehovah’s Witness
Kingdom Hall
457 Rodrunner Blvd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-4342
Methodist
Elizabeth Lee Methodist Church 139 Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2182
LaFayette First United Methodist Church 301 S. Main Street LaFayette, GA 30728 (706) 638-2057
Rock Spring Methodist Church 3477 Peavine Rd Rock Springs, GA 30739
706-375-5345
Non-Denominational Battlefield of Life Worship Center 56 Kevin Ln. Rock Springs, GA 770-827-6718
Calvary Chapel Refinery 101 E Peachtree St, Rossville, GA 30741
706-806-9444
Care Mission 105 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3664
Cowboy Church of Lafayette 196 County Line Rd, Rock Spring, GA 30739 423-596-7227
Faith Worship Center 200 S. Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-313-7035
Gospel Light Christian Fellowship 36 Fortune St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-996-8535
Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-4673
Life Gate Church
204 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-7620
Mission Bridge Church 807 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-364-6771
Mount Zion Church 223 Dunwoody Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1238
New Bethel Christian Fellowship 4009 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6904
Power of Life LaFayette Church 798 W Main St LaFayette, GA 423-596-703430728
River of Life Church 807 W. Maqin St. LaFayette, GA 423-596-703430728
The Haven - LaFayette 415 Chestnut St. LaFayette, GA 706-996-815030728
Presbyterian
Chickamauga Presbyterian Church 700 7th Street Chickamauga, GA (706) 375-3432
Highland Presbyterian Church 1211 W Noth Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-8940
Lafayette Presbyterian Church 107 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3932
Quaker
New Friendship Baptist Church 281 Friendship Rd Chickamauga, GA
706-375-7198
Wesleyan
Gordon Lake Weslyan Church
29 Gordon Lake Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6517
Compassion of A Common Man
by Douglas Baynes
During the Civil War in 1862, Union Captain Robert Ellicombe was with his men near Harrison’s Landing in Virginia. The Confederate Army was on the other side of a narrow strip of land. The night was dark. With no moon, not a shadow was cast. The mournful cry of a soldier mortally wounded cut through the night as he lay somewhere on the land between them. Not knowing if it was friend or foe, Captain Ellicombe decided to risk his life and bring the stricken soldier back to behind the Union lines for medical treatment. Crawling through the gunfire of the enemy, the Captain finally reached the wounded man and began to pull him to his encampment. Finally reaching his own lines, in the dim light of their camp, he discovered that it was actually a Confederate soldier, and that the soldier was dead.
Captain Ellicombe was moved by compassion. We can define and recognize compassion as an act of movement. Sympathy would have kept him in the camp, only to be sorrowfully spoken of later.
In the light of the tragedy that has befallen Jamaica from Category 5 level Hurricane Melissa, the story of Captain Ellicombe came to my mind. Every night we are shown the faces of ordinary people doing extraordinary, selfless feats of heroism for those in need. I, for one, am tired, and at times sickened, by the constant stories played out by our local news of shootings or of couples who have taken the life of their own child.
I firmly believe that if we would turn our concerns away from our daily agendas and focus on the needs around us, our communities would become much better. I am by no means the patron saint of “do-gooders,” but I feel compelled to look for ways to be moved by compassion as Captain Ellicombe was. To put forth some action in my life as to make a difference would make an impact if only in small, everyday acts of kindness. It could be an unmerited act of kindness, if you would, such as these:
• I’ll try to find someone to cover with my umbrella on the next rainy day as I leave the grocery store and walk with them to their car.
• If someone needs to get over in my lane, I will slow to let them in. Am I really in that big of a hurry?
• I can push a cart back into WalMart.
• When I park, I park farther out from the door, so maybe the closest parking spaces can go to someone who cannot walk as well as I can.
It is wonderful to see how everyday folks put their own safety aside in a moment of crisis and put themselves in harm's way to aid others. I feel blessed to live in an area where tidal waves and hurricanes are not much of a real threat, but could the wave of everyday complacency be washing at our feet?
Over and over, we see Jesus was not moved to sympathy, but to compassion. Sympathy is feeling pity for someone’s hardship, while compassion is a deeper feeling that includes a desire to act, to end that suffering. Jesus healed all the sick who were brought to him. When He taught them for a long afternoon, He fed them all, so they could make it home that night. Christ was compassion embodied.
Back to the Civil War account, Captain Ellicombe lit a lantern. Suddenly he caught his breath and went numb with shock. In the dim light, he looked upon the face of the dead Confederate soldier. It was his very own son! The young man had moved South to study music. When the war broke out, he joined the Confederate Army, never writing home to tell his father.
The following morning, broken-hearted, the father asked his superiors to give his son a full military burial, despite his enemy status. His request was partially granted. The Captain asked if the Army band would play a funeral hymn, but that request was denied since he was a Confederate soldier. Out of respect for the father, they did give him one musician. The Captain chose a bugler. In his son’s pocket, the father found a piece of paper that had notes written on it that his son had been writing. He asked the bugler to play them at his son's grave.
This music was and is the haunting melody that we all know today as “Taps,” used at all military funerals.
Who is waiting for our compassion? Somebody’s mother? Somebody’s son? Someone is waiting for you.
Doug and Annie, his wife of 43 years, attend First Baptist Church of Cleveland, TN. He is an author and Annie is a speaker and teacher at various women's meetings. Retired now, they spend their summer months traveling the USA in their RV
"The Battle of Gettysburg" by Paul Philippoteaux
More Than a Meal: Farm to Fork Creates a Gathering Place in Ringgold, GA
Some of life's most meaningful moments are built around gathering together. A well-prepared meal and meaningful conversation have a way of bringing people closer.
We Bring the Fresh. You Bring the Appetite. Families gather to celebrate milestones. Church groups share meals after Sunday services. Business partnerships are formed over lunch. Friends linger over conversations long after the plates have been cleared. Food has a way of bringing people together, and the places where those gatherings happen matter too.
At Farm to Fork in Ringgold, Georgia, the Hayes family, after acquiring the well-established business, has worked to create more than a restaurant. They have built a community gathering place where good food, hospitality, and fellowship are naturally drawn together.
After spending most of his career in transportation finance as a CFO and later becoming part owner of one of the largest intermodal trucking companies in the country, Mike and his son Justin built and operated McAlister's Deli in Fort Oglethorpe before purchasing
Schlotzsky's Deli in Dalton. With countless relatives and in-laws who all live in the Chattanooga area, Mike and his wife Patty are proud of having relatives close by and roots deep in the Fort Oglethorpe area. They met in 3rd grade at Cloud Springs Elementary. Mike further explains, “My parents still live in the same house in Fort Oglethorpe and have since 1971.”
Located at 120 General Lee Street, Farm to Fork has become a destination for locals looking for fresh meals served in a welcoming atmosphere. Operated by the Hayes family and their dedicated team, whose roots run deep in the nearby Ft. Oglethorpe/Ringgold community, the restaurant reflects a commitment to serving neighbors with the same care one might offer guests in their own home. Many of Farm to Fork's team members have been with the restaurant since well before Mike and his family acquired it, including Johnell (Nelly) Hull, James (Jimbo) Shortridge, Tristin Carlock, and new GM Rene Grever. It truly requires a team effort to be able to offer a menu this large with every item cooked to order.
"Our goal is to offer something this community can be proud of," says Mike Hayes. “Farm to Fork offers fresh ingredients in our meals with a communityfriendly atmosphere."
Grace and Space
That atmosphere extends well beyond the dining room.
A few years ago, the large patio was covered, creating an inviting outdoor space. Guests can enjoy a meal while taking advantage of North Georgia's pleasant seasons. The patio has become a favorite gathering spot for everything from casual lunches to relaxed evening meals with family and friends.
Photographs of local farms and residents in the area are a new touch. Hayes explains, “We have added and upgraded the equipment in order to create a better and more consistent dining experience. The outside of the building was cleaned and re-stained to keep the building in top shape. Also, we’ve upgraded our operating software to better support the communication between our staff and kitchen. The new software also supports all of the new online options from third-party operators for better delivery. This provides a better experience for our customers.”
The restaurant is a valuable resource for organizations, businesses, churches, and families seeking a place to gather. Farm to Fork offers two private meeting rooms that accommodate a variety of events. One room seats up to 45 guests, while the larger room can host as many as 75 people. Each room has recently received a fresh coat of paint, new window blinds, and new flooring. Projectors and screens make it easy to give professional presentations to business partners or clients as well as creating a casual backdrop of photos for family gatherings and celebrations.
In an era when finding a comfortable and affordable meeting space can be challenging, Farm to Fork provides an option that combines convenience with
exceptional food and service. Consider connecting with Farm to Fork for your next events such as hosting a business luncheon, birthday party, retirement celebration, rehearsal dinner, church gathering, or family reunion. You and your guests can focus on the event while the restaurant handles the hospitality.
Of course, the food remains the center of the experience. Weekday visitors appreciate the $11.99 Lunch Express menu, featuring fresh meals served Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Lunch Punch Card program rewards regular guests with a free meal after ten visits, adding value to an already affordable lunch destination.
Favorites such as the hearty Cobb Salad offer a satisfying midday option, while Monday's fifty-cent smoked wing special has developed a loyal following among locals. Tuesday nights bring another crowd favorite with Buy One, Get One free pizzas that make gathering around the table even easier. And keep in mind the slow-cooked Prime Rib seasoned to perfection Wednesday through Sunday.
Community and Connections
Community remains a consistent theme throughout the restaurant's offerings. Every Monday evening, guests gather for Trivia Night, where friendly competition, laughter, and conversation fill the room. Other weekly favorites include Karaoke on Sundays and Wednesdays, Singo on Thursdays, and Open Mic Nights on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. These are the kind of events that remind people that dining out can still be about connection rather than convenience.
Farm to Fork also rewards loyal guests through its free VIP Club, providing members with exclusive event invitations, special offers, loyalty rewards, and insider updates.
In many ways, Farm to Fork reflects something that has long been valued throughout the South: hospitality that feels genuine and welcoming, offering fresh food and excellent service. Now that's nourishing for both body and soul! You'll leave Farm to Fork satisfied and carrying with you the kind of contentment that comes from a well-prepared meal and unhurried fellowship, ready to face the demands of life more refreshed than when you arrived.
Are You Ready for Revival?
Personal revival is maintained through daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible meditation in conjunction with prayer, exaltation, thanksgiving, confession, and intercession while yielding to the Holy Spirit of God as modeled by Jesus in the Lord’s Prayer and the disciple’s prayer.
(See Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4.)
Once personal revival has taken hold and our walk with Jesus is established as the bedrock foundation of our agape love of Jesus, and for the people around us, then it might be possible for the spirit of revival to spread to others.
Most of us have a ready network of acquaintances, friends, and confidants. But who is to be entrusted with something as important as revival?
Someone once suggested: “Find the dirtiest, vilest sinner in town and get him converted. Then the fires of revival will ignite.” While I am reluctant to dismiss such methodology outright, unless the Holy Spirit draws you to that direction, it is the direction of the Holy Spirit who bears mentioning. Take time in prayer and fasting to see whom the Spirit will place on your heart. I would
by Chaplain Filip Brunner
not look for perfection. That is God’s department and none of us are perfect. God is looking for availability. Here is where we need to unpack a passage which we like to use in order to conjure up revivals. A point that needs to be made is that Biblical texts are not magical formulas. They are guidelines for us to follow.
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2nd Chronicles 7:14 KJV).
Pay special attention to the if. This is the most difficult for me because it brings into question my willingness not only to relinquish control of my life fully to God, but to go deeper in my relationship and fellowship with Him. “My People” refers specifically to Israel, but the New Testament has us grafted into the commonwealth of Israel. (See Romans 11.)
“which are called by my name” Christians, believers, disciples of Christ, etc.
“shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways;”
This is basically self-explanatory. Humbly approach the throne of God, deliberately look into the Father’s face, and turn from sin. The Holiness of God has that strange effect on us.
“Then will I hear from Heaven” From Heaven? Now that is interesting. God is in Heaven, isn’t He? Well, yes, and on Earth and in the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit. The whole Omnipresent thing, you understand.
At the time of the writing, the presence of God was in the Temple of God in Jerusalem. Presently, the Holy Spirit resides in the Temple of God which is not made with human hands, but is the creation of God. It is the Believer’s body which is the Temple of the Holy Spirit. He indwells us at the time of our conversion when we are born again. When we seek a revival, we rely on God to do the work. We act only when we, or more accurately, the Holy Spirit whom we house in our bodily Temple, hears from Heaven that He “will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Genuine revival comes in God’s timing, in God’s way, not in mine. Stay out of God’s way, and yield to Him. Revival is what God wants to do, not what we conjure up.
Are you ready for revival?
Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children. He is a writer, author, and artist.
Changing Plans, Changing Me
by Dr. Bobbye Jo Davidson
The Lord not only changes our plans; He often changes us in the process. I vividly recall a spring quarter in college when I elected educational courses because two professors were outstanding in their field. Even though I enjoyed their classes, my plans were settled. In the ‘50s, the job opportunities for women were limited to secretary, teacher, employment at the mill, and marriage. Since I had done well in my business classes, I chose to be a secretary. I certainly would not become a teacher!
One day that spring quarter, the education professors asked me to stay after class. I could not think of anything I had done wrong, so I stayed. They asked if I had ever considered teaching. Very politely I responded with “No, ma’am.” They told me they both thought I would be a good teacher. It certainly was a compliment. By the next week, they had found an opening not far from Georgia State College for Women and set up an interview for me.
I was majoring in business with a minor in biology and headed to a position with the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta after graduation in August.
Arranging my schedule to be off work and absent from my classes, I would drive to the small town near Augusta. I remember it was a beautiful, sunny April day. I smiled as I drove the 75 miles to the teaching interview. Yes, the very one who had said she would never be a teacher!
Purposely arriving a little early, I drove around the town. It was very neat, clean, and similar to my hometown. I liked it instantly. The churches were important to me. People downtown seemed relaxed and friendly to each other. Subconsciously, I was impressed.
At the high school, I parked. The principal was watching for me and greeted me when I hit the first step to enter
the school. Teachers were very friendly as I met them going down the hall to his office. I liked that everyone was friendly and greeted me warmly. I was changing but didn’t realize it at the time.
The principal did a good job summarizing the reason why they were late getting a teacher. The current teacher had just found out she was pregnant and wanted to stay home once the baby arrived. She would just be finishing the year.
He gave me an ample description of what would be expected: six classes, hall duty, etc. One teacher, who had been there many years, interviewed me and approved. A couple of students “just happened by” and I met the co-captains of the football team. They were very polite. They gave their positive opinions to the principal.
By then, I was very interested as I learned about the teacherage, a two-story brick home on the edge of campus that was rent-free, except for utilities, for teachers. “SOLD,” I thought to myself.
I left town that afternoon with a contract explaining how I would have to go to night school and summer school to get certified for teaching. With that, I dismissed my pursuits of the CDC and the big city of Atlanta. God had changed my plans and His plans were better for me. He continued to open doors for me. I loved teaching.
Yes, now at 89 years young, I recall that beautiful, sunshiny April day and how I smiled as I drove the 75 miles to and from a teaching interview. It seems that God not only changed my plans, He changed me!
Dr. Bobbye Jo Davidson, known to most as Jo, lives in Rome, Georgia. She enjoys writing and sharing about Jesus. She became a teacher without intending to be. She’ll write about that adventure soon. Stay tuned for more in future issues!
Willow Tree Farms in Ringgold, GA welcomes you and your loved ones for events at their venue that now boasts two event spaces as of 2025. Both locations on the property include all their beloved outdoor amenities for activities as well as all their outdoor wedding arbor options. The Pavilion holds anywhere from 75 to 150 guests, depending on if you expand the space with their 20ft x 40ft garden party tent. The 609 Indoor Reception Hall can hold up to 300 guests, includes a large built-in bar, two apartments with a catering kitchen and overnight accommodations inside, and or a cocktail hour. These event spaces include tables, chairs, and benches along with several add on options of yard
maintaining the
venue welcomes aspiring photographers with it's
The New Telephone Book: Is Your Name Written?
by Charles Finney
Beloved, let us take a humorous but earnest journey together through a peculiar modern ritual—the arrival of the new telephone book! When that hefty volume is dropped on your doorstep, there is a strange excitement. You pick it up, flip its thin, crinkly pages, and begin the search. What for? Your own name, of course!
For some reason, seeing our name there, printed among thousands of others, fills us with a sense of importance. "Look!" we say to ourselves, "I exist! I am listed! My name is here for all to see!"
But, brethren, does not this mirror a far greater reality? In Revelation 20:12 KJV, we read, “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”
The Bible speaks of a celestial directory—the Book of Life. Unlike the telephone book, where a simple address grants us entry, this divine record lists only the redeemed, those washed in the blood of the Lamb (Revelation 7:14).
Now, imagine with me if the heavenly host delivered a fresh copy of the Book of Life to your doorstep. Would you nervously flip through its pages, searching for your name? Would you feel that familiar relief when you spot it there, shining brighter than the finest gold? Or would you tremble, unable to find your name, muttering, "Surely there must be a typo!"
Oh, the folly of our earthly pride! Seeing our name in a mundane directory makes us feel significant, but how fleeting is that glory? A new edition will come next year, and if you’ve moved, your name might vanish from its pages altogether. In contrast, the name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life is eternal. Jesus said in Luke 10:20 KJV, “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”
Yet, dear friends, do not think this heavenly listing is earned by good credit or a clean driving record. Salvation is not a subscription service! It is by grace through faith, as Paul wrote, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest
any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV). You can’t dial up heaven and ask to be added to the list; instead, you must believe on the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31).
So the next time you receive that humble telephone book and eagerly look to find your name, let it remind you of a greater search. Rejoice if you know your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and let that eternal listing humble you. And if perchance you doubt, remember this: the Savior is ever ready to inscribe your name with His own precious blood.
Now that’s a directory worth being listed in!
Charles Finney—minister of inspirational Good News, retired various positions and industries, management and operational, freelance writer, author of “GrandpaGood News From The Good Feel Cornfield.” Writings are a remembrance of family, farm life and church upbringing to be a blessing to all!
A Penny for God’s Thoughts
by Bill Silvers
My wonderful wife of 41 years, who was a nurse and is now retired, once brought home a penny with a cross in it that she had received from one of her patients at the hospital. She handed it to me, and although it was a thoughtful gift from the patient through her, I myself didn’t give it much thought at the time. I placed it on the kitchen island and walked away.
The next morning, I might have glanced at it as I passed by on my way to work. But then, as I walked past it again the following morning, something made me stop. I picked it up, and the moment it touched my hand, I knew that God had a plan and a purpose for me, and that this penny with the cross was somehow part of it.
I prayed to God for guidance and direction on the path He wanted me to take. With God leading the way, He first led me to Steve Petty, a retired Methodist minister who sold the pennies with the cross for just one penny each, believing it wasn’t right to profit from them. In 2014, Steve sent 30,000 of these pennies to Green Berets Special Forces in Afghanistan. By 2019, he had punched out his nine-millionth penny, continuing to create millions more since then, all for God’s glory, not his own.
The next week, I ordered 500 pennies and was thrilled when they arrived. Throughout this journey, God placed people in my path to help me reach the purpose He had planned. The first person He sent was Pastor Tamlyn Collins from Chatsworth First Methodist Church – an amazing woman of faith. With God and her prayers, along with her guidance and support, we were on our way.
I was also blessed with a wonderful group of ladies from the church who took on the meticulous task of attaching each penny with a little cross to business cards with printed messages. Their quiet service and dedication reflected hearts willing to work behind the scenes, trusting that God would use even the smallest act for something greater.
We included messages such as:
• “I am the One Cent by Jesus to tell you that God loves you.”
• “Jesus is the One Cent by God to pay for our sins and mistakes by dying on the cross and rising again.”
• “It makes C-E-N-T-S to follow Jesus. Have a blessed day.”
We also included the poem by Vera Mae Thomas, entitled “I Carry a Cross in My Pocket.”
As the pennies were shared, I was reminded repeatedly that this wasn’t about me, or even about the penny. It was about obedience. It was about planting seeds and trusting God to do what only He can.
To date, we have shared over 20,000 pennies with the cross.
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” (1 Corinthians 3:6-7 NIV)
Bill Silvers from Ellijay, Georgia, began running competitively at age 81. He runs to the glory of God!
Who You Know
by Garrett Nudd
We’ve all heard people say, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” I used to find that concept offensive, but that was usually when I was on the outside looking in. Truth is; when it comes to faith, it’s not what you know; it’s who you know. Faith isn’t about knowledge and power, authority and confidence. Faith is about connection, trust, belief, and commitment. Are you connected where it matters? Are you connected to who matters?
In the early days of my career as a photographer, we lived in a small, 1950s bungalow in the old College Park neighborhood of Orlando. We met with clients in our home. We’d sit at the dining room table and talk about their wedding. We couldn’t afford a nice studio, and we didn’t have the wall space for lots of samples of our work, just a handful of modest 11x14s, nicely matted and framed. But that’s when I realized that more important than a beautiful studio with carefully appointed decor was the ability to listen to someone and genuinely do my best to connect and to understand their vision for their wedding. I learned what questions to ask that would help the bride realize I was the best choice to photograph her wedding. And I learned when to stay quiet (90 percent of the time) and when to speak (only 10 percent of the time).
Over the years I’ve been blessed to mentor other photographers. And most often I would spend the majority of their time listening to them tell me about all the great things they were doing. All the while, I would take mental notes of things to add or refine in my own business. And usually, they would leave thanking me for my time and input and being so generous with everything I had shared. And every time, I’d walk away shrugging my shoulders because all I had done was listen and affirm them.
Success in life doesn’t come from talking about how great you are. Success comes from talking about how great others are, encouraging them, cheering them on, and only when appropriate, making it clear how you fit into the picture. I hope I’m making it clear that you can help someone else be even more successful and still achieve MORE THAN yourself. Your MORE THAN is never limited by someone else’s MORE THAN. There is no ceiling!
Each of us has insecurities. We aren’t as smart, aren’t as talented, aren’t as tall, aren’t as good looking, aren’t as confident, aren’t as wealthy, aren’t as connected, aren’t as creative, aren’t as ________ (fill in the blank). There will always be someone who has something you don’t, but similarly, you have something unique that no one else has.
In my career as a photographer, I’ve worked with people of extreme material success and fortune. And more times than not, they were filled with so much love and graciousness and were true examples of MORE THAN. More often than not, they minimize or downplay their own successes and are eager to contribute to the success of others. Remember, when God gives you MORE THAN, He expects you to give MORE THAN so that others can experience MORE THAN too.
Yes, being a successful photographer is less about the photographs and more about enthusiasm and authenticity. But then, so is everything in life.
How is your enthusiasm level these days? Are you building a life that’s authentic to your dreams, desires, or callings? Are you listening more than speaking? If so, you are well on your way to MORE THAN!
This excerpt from Garrett’s book, MORE THAN Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, is adapted to our format and used with permission.
John Norman, MD
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery; Joint Replacements of the Knee and Hip; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of General Orthopedic Conditions, Sports Related Injuries & Pediatric Injuries
Jim Lashley, MD
Fellowship Trained in Orthopedic
Spine Surgery
Specializing In:
Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Injuries to the Back, Neck & Spine; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of General Orthopedic Conditions & Sports Related Injuries
Mitch Frix, MD
Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine & Arthroscopic Surgery
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery;
Joint Replacements of the Shoulder & Knee; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Sports Related Injuries
Nick Reed, MD
Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine & Arthroscopic Surgery
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery of the Hip, Knee, & Shoulder
Joint Replacements of the Shoulder
Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Sports Related Injuries
Mike Wilson, MD
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery;
Joint Replacements of the Knee and Hip; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of General Orthopedic Conditions & Sports Related Injuries
D.J. Goss, DO
Fellowship Trained in Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgery
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery of the Foot & Ankle; Joint Replacements of the Foot & Ankle; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Sports Related Injuries of the Foot & Ankle
August in Appalachia:
GARDEN-FRESH TOMATO PIE
By August, the Smoky Mountains are lush with life. The fireflies are fewer, but the cicadas sing louder. The sun lingers just a little less each evening, and the garden— faithfully tended all summer long—starts to show off its full glory. That’s when the tomatoes finally reach their prime. Not just red, but ruby, juicy, warm from the vine. If you’ve ever tasted a tomato in August, you know: it’s not just food—it’s a gift.
In mountain kitchens, August tomatoes don’t go to waste. Sliced and salted on sandwiches, simmered into sauces, or eaten with nothing more than a sprinkle of pepper, they’re the stars of every meal. But one of the most beloved—and perhaps most underappreciated— ways to use them is in a Southern Tomato Pie.
This dish is pure Appalachian creativity: a buttery pie crust filled with layers of thick-sliced garden tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a cheesy, creamy topping that bakes into a savory custard. It’s humble and rich, rustic and refined all at once.
Tomato pie is best served fresh but can be eaten cold the next day—if there's any left. It’s a dish that tastes like sunshine and soil and Southern hospitality, all baked into one golden slice.
Whether it’s the centerpiece of a light supper or a side at a Sunday potluck, tomato pie is a delicious reminder to savor the gifts of the season—because just like summer in the mountains, ripe tomatoes don’t last forever.
Southern Tomato Pie
Ingredients:
1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought), pre-baked
4–5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped sweet onion
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Lay the sliced tomatoes on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
In the pre-baked crust, layer tomatoes, onion, and basil. Repeat until filled.
In a small bowl, mix cheddar, mozzarella, mayonnaise, and mustard if using. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the pie.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
These Are the Things
(A poetic letter to my younger selves)
by Rev. Chris Mullis
When I think back over the years… There are a few things I wish I’d known. So God whispered, “Write yourself a letter.”
These are the things I would write to me, When the road seemed long and I couldn’t see. Grace is stronger than regret, Love’s a gift—don’t forget. You’re never alone, even when you feel weak. These are the things I would write back to me.
Hey kid, you’re ten with your heart wide open, You think all God wants is rules unbroken. But it’s not about being perfect— It’s about learning to trust. Ride bikes, play ball, and climb trees But don’t forget quiet time down on your knees.
Now you’re 21, chasing dreams, life’s moving fast, Rushing toward tomorrow, forgetting the past. You don’t know you’re a leader or your worth, But God’s been guiding you since birth. You’re not lost—you’re learning to be free.
Just breathe. Just live. And just believe.
You’ve got a house full of children at 33, And you carry more than most people can see. You're building things more precious than gold— Even when you feel tired and old. Don’t trade peace for striving and stress, God loves you as you are—no more, no less.
At 40, you’re feeling the weight of those years, Wrestling joy and weariness, hopes and fears. But don’t you see? God’s still writing your story. It’s not about you—it’s about His glory. There’s more ahead than you’ve left behind, So live with grace, and take your time.
These are the things I would write to me, When the road seemed long and I couldn’t see. Grace is stronger than regret, Love’s a gift—don’t forget.
You’re never alone, even when you feel weak. These are the things I would write back to me.
Yes… these are the things I would write back to me.
Rev. Chris Mullis is an ordained minister in the Global Methodist Church with a Masters of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Pastor Chris’s ministry has spanned twenty years and four different churches in Georgia. Chris recently moved to Jackson, GA, to serve Stark Methodist Church.
The Way Home
by Dorothy Teague
There’s a TV series that’s currently playing about a family who lives on a farm with a magical, teleporting pond. The granddaughter accidently falls into the pond and discovers that she can go back in time! Throughout the episodes, the granddaughter, along with her mother, discover family history, which explains how their present-day family came to be. But family secrets and past sins are also revealed. Often, it seems as though they will not be able to return to their own time because of being in a time and place where they don’t belong. This reminded me of the parable of The Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32.
A man had two sons and the younger one wanted his inheritance early. The father graciously gave it to him
and the son proceeded to go a long distance from home. There he squandered all the money by indulgent and sinful living. Soon, he had nothing and was forced to get a job feeding pigs. There was a famine in the land at the time and the young son was starving, to the point of hungering after the very food he was giving the pigs. Luke 15:17 KJV says: ” …and when he came to himself he said, ‘How many servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!’
How many times do each of us veer off the right path that God has set us on to go our own way in sin? But God patiently waits on us to come to our senses and return home. The prodigal goes on to say that he will go and tell his father that he realizes he has sinned against heaven and against his father. At that moment, his heart is in a place of humbleness and contrition, and he purposes in his heart to make it right with his father. As we move through the story, we find that as the son got close to home and the father saw him, the father ran to him and embraced him. Verse 21 records that he followed through on what he purposed in his heart to do and that was to ask the father for forgiveness. The father not only forgives him, but throws a party in his honor to welcome him back home into the fold.
The father in this parable is our Heavenly Father and the wayward son is all of us! We all stray away from God at times and go into a distant land of sin. But God, who is a God of unconditional love, is always waiting with open arms to welcome us back home!
However, we must come to ourselves, have a repentant heart and ask God to forgive us. Isaiah 53:6 KJV tells us that “ALL we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way…”
We are a lot like sheep. We aren’t too smart and we get lost and meander off the trail!
Yet, the Great Shepherd leads us back into the way we need to go to get back home. John 14:6 KJV reminds us that He is the ONLY way to get home. “I am the way, the truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” He IS our home and He is the ONLY way to get to our final Home in Heaven one day!
County
is a Tennessee
her husband,
who resides in
their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.
Dorothy Teague
native,
McMinn
with
Lewis, on
"The Return of the Prodigal Son" by Carl Johann Nepomuk Hemerlein
The Importance of Flossing on Heart Health
by Courtney Fox
What is a simple, quick habit you can do to help your overall health and especially your heart health? Train for a marathon? Add oatmeal to your mornings? Eat more broccoli? None of the above: it’s flossing!
If you’re a regular flosser, you probably do so because food gets stuck between your teeth or maybe you notice your gums are more sensitive when you go without flossing. There are also the benefits of having a cleanerfeeling mouth, less bad breath, and a better likelihood of a good report at your next dental cleaning.
Here are some encouraging, interesting, and lesserknown benefits that you’ll be glad to learn:
Adding flossing to your daily routine:
• Removes plaque and food particles that a toothbrush alone can’t reach. Without flossing, you might miss cleaning up to 40% of your tooth surfaces.
• Can help prevent cavities and tooth decay.
• Can lower your risk of stroke and irregular heart rhythms. Ongoing new research with American Heart Association and American Stroke Association has linked flossing with a reduced risk of these.
• Decreases inflammation and occurrence of gum disease.
• Lowers risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream.
• Decreases systemic inflammation, which can damage blood vessels. Bacteria associated with gum disease has been found in fatty deposits that clog arteries and lead to heart attacks.
Did you know?
• Shared risk factors in conditions like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity are more prevalent in people with periodontal disease, which is infection and inflammation of the tissue that supports the teeth.
• The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least one time per day, but on average only one-third of the population does so.
So why is this dental habit important to God? Well, honoring the body He blessed us with is in His Biblical instructions to us. We are to value and respect our bodies and treat them with care. He made each of us and formed us in the womb, on purpose with a purpose.
So how can something as simple and mundane as flossing be used to glorify the Lord? If we take care of what He has entrusted to us, our mouths in this instance, we have the potential to live longer, smile more, have significantly less chance of developing health problems and acquiring pain from oral infections, etc.
New research and evidence makes flossing an undeniable healthy habit. Flossing, together with other healthy habits, can prevent stroke or heart disease. It is very much worth incorporating this healthy habit into your lifestyle, no matter your age.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us: "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
Your smile has the ability to positively impact many people throughout your lifetime. With the confidence to smile more, because of healthy oral habits and routines, you are sure to see fruit from this labor.
Courtney is a married mother to two daughters and a nurse supervisor. She has completed a half marathon, triathlon, and a full marathon. She encourages you to “LIVE WELL!”
GEORGIA’S #1 HEART HOSPITAL
Hamilton Medical Center is proud to lead the state in heart & vascular care.
Recognized by the American College of Cardiology through participation in NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services, our heart program reflects a deep commitment to quality, outcomes, and continuous improvement.
This recognition honors the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and cardiovascular teams — and reinforces our promise to deliver advanced, lifesaving heart care right here at home.
When it comes to heart care, expertise matters.
Hamilton Medical Center is recognized by the American College of Cardiology and ranked first in Georgia for Heart Care in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals Guide
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